Last Name Bala

The last name "Bala" is common in several cultures, including Indian, Greek, and Hungarian. In India, the name "Bala" is typically of Hindu origin and means "young" or "child." It can be a given name or a surname. In Greek, the name "Bala" is derived from the Greek word "vallas," meaning "white" or "fair." In Hungarian, the name "Bala" is believed to be of ethnic origin, possibly derived from the Balas family name, which was common in the 13th century. Overall, the last name "Bala" has diverse origins and meanings depending on the cultural context.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bala

The meaning and origin of the last name Bala

The surname Bala is of Welsh origin and is derived from the Welsh word "bâl" meaning "forehead" or "brow". It is a topographic surname which would have been given to individuals who lived near or on a prominent hill or brow of a hill. The name could also have been used as a nickname for someone with a prominent or distinctive forehead. The surname Bala was likely first adopted during the medieval period as a way to distinguish one family or individual from another within the Welsh community. Over time, the surname would have been passed down through generations, becoming an integral part of a family's identity. Today, individuals with the surname Bala can be found not only in Wales, but also in other parts of the world due to migration and globalization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bala

The last name Bala is most commonly found in Nigeria, where it is of Hausa origin and means "warrior." It is believed to have originated from the Hausa word "balarabe," which means "brave man." The name has spread throughout West Africa, particularly in countries like Ghana, Cameroon, and Niger. In India, the name is also found among various communities, including the Telugu-speaking people of Andhra Pradesh. The surname Bala is less common in countries outside of Africa and India, but it can still be found in small numbers in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, where individuals of African and Indian descent have settled. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Bala is primarily concentrated in West Africa and India, reflecting its origins and cultural significance in these regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bala

The last name Bala can have various variations and spellings. Some common variations include Balas, Balak, Balan, Balanis, and Balakrishnan. These variations may be the result of different regional dialects, transliterations, or historical influences. In some cultures, the surname may be spelled as Bala, Balaa, or Balaah. Additionally, the last name may also be spelled with a silent "h" at the end as Balah. The spelling of the surname may also vary depending on the country or language, such as Balá in Hungarian or Balavoine in French. Regardless of the spelling or variation, the last name Bala carries its own unique history and significance for individuals and families who bear this surname.

Famous people with the last name Bala

There are a few famous individuals with the last name Bala, including Nigerian actress and producer, Ini Edo, whose full name is actually Iniobong Edo Ekim. She is known for her work in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, and has won several awards for her performances. Another notable figure with the last name Bala is Indian former cricketer, Ellyse Alexandra Perry, who is widely regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the history of women's cricket. Perry has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career, including being the youngest Australian to debut in both cricket and soccer at the international level. Both Ini Edo and Ellyse Perry have made significant contributions to their respective fields and continue to be influential figures in the entertainment and sports industries.

Genealogical research on the last name Bala

The surname Bala is of Indian origin and is most commonly found among the Tamil and Telugu communities. The name is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word "bala," meaning strength or power. It is possible that early bearers of the name were known for their physical prowess or leadership abilities. Genealogical research on the surname Bala reveals a rich history of individuals who have passed down the name through generations, with many different branches of the family tree spreading across various regions of India. Today, individuals with the last name Bala can be found in different parts of the world due to migration and globalization. Studying the genealogy of the Bala family can provide insight into the cultural and historical roots of this surname and help trace the lineage of those who bear it.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bala"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 10 June 2025

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